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Contract law in Elliniko - as in the rest of Greece - is rooted in the Greek Civil Code and in a body of laws and EU-derived rules that regulate how private agreements are formed, performed and enforced. Basic principles include freedom of contract, the requirement of valid consent, a lawful object and sufficient capacity of the parties. Certain types of contracts require a specific form - for example notarial deeds for many real-estate transactions - while many commercial and consumer contracts are governed by special statutory rules and EU consumer-protection legislation. If a dispute arises, remedies can include specific performance, termination, damages and claims before courts or through alternative dispute-resolution mechanisms such as mediation or arbitration.
Hiring a lawyer is often important when contract rights, obligations or risks are significant. Common situations in which people seek legal help include:
- Drafting or reviewing contracts to ensure terms are clear, enforceable and compliant with mandatory Greek and EU law.
- Buying or selling real estate in Elliniko - transactions usually require notarial acts, tax checks and registration steps that benefit from legal guidance.
- Resolving breaches of contract - pursuing claims for non-payment, defective performance or damages, or defending against an action.
- Negotiating commercial agreements with suppliers, customers or partners, including distribution, agency or franchise agreements.
- Handling consumer law issues - cancellations, misleading terms or warranty claims under Greek and EU consumer-protection rules.
- Drafting employment-related contractual provisions, settlement agreements or confidentiality and data-protection clauses.
- Advising on cross-border contracts, choice-of-law and jurisdiction clauses, and enforcement of foreign judgments or awards.
This overview highlights key legal aspects relevant to contracts in Elliniko:
- Formation and validity - Contracts generally require offer and acceptance, legally competent parties, lawful object and consent free of error, fraud or duress. Some contracts require a written form or a notarial deed to be valid or to be enforceable against third parties.
- Mandatory provisions and good faith - Greek law enforces mandatory provisions and requires parties to act in good faith. Clauses that attempt to waive statutory protections - for example certain consumer rights - may be void.
- Consumer protection - EU consumer rules apply in Greece, including distance and off-premises contracts where consumers often have a right of withdrawal and mandatory pre-contractual information obligations for traders.
- Real-estate and property - Sales and transfers of real property commonly require a notarial deed and registration in the land registry or cadastre. Taxes, clear title and proper registration are essential to ensure legal transfer and enforceability.
- Commercial law and merchants - Commercial contracts between businesses are also influenced by commercial customs and statutory provisions that apply to traders and commercial obligations.
- Remedies and enforcement - Where a party breaches a contract, the injured party may claim damages, demand specific performance, request termination or seek provisional remedies. Court litigation is available through the civil courts, and arbitration or mediation are alternatives often used in commercial disputes.
- Electronic contracts and signatures - Electronic contracts and electronic signatures are broadly recognised under EU rules implemented in Greece, but certain acts - notably many real-estate transfers - still require a notarial form.
- Documentation and language - Contracts governing domestic matters are most safe when drafted in Greek or accompanied by a certified Greek translation. Foreign-language contracts may be valid, but Greek authority and courts will give priority to Greek-language documentation where ambiguities affect legal rights.
A valid contract requires consent of the parties, legal capacity to contract, a lawful object and terms that are clear enough to identify obligations. Where the law prescribes a specific form - for example a notarial deed for some real-estate transactions - that form must be respected. Contracts made under error, fraud or duress can be voidable.
Not always. Many contracts can be concluded verbally and are enforceable. However, written contracts are strongly recommended because they provide proof of the parties' intentions and terms. Certain transactions legally require written or notarial form to be valid or enforceable against third parties.
Key checks include confirmation of title and ownership, absence of encumbrances or mortgages, required planning and building permits, outstanding taxes or charges, the need for a notarial deed, and registration steps in the land registry or cadastre. A lawyer or notary can verify these elements and guide settlement and registration procedures.
For consumer purchases at a distance or off-premises, EU rules that Greece follows normally give consumers a short period to withdraw without reason - commonly 14 days for many online and distance contracts. Exceptions and specific procedures apply, so you should confirm whether your purchase is covered and follow the seller's withdrawal instructions promptly.
If a party breaches the contract you can seek remedies such as enforcement of performance, termination of the contract, and damages for loss suffered. The precise remedy depends on the contract terms, the nature of the breach and whether statutory provisions apply. In some cases a lawyer may seek interim relief from a court to preserve evidence or assets.
Clauses that fix damages or establish penalties are generally enforceable if they do not contravene mandatory law or public policy. Courts may reduce excessive penalties that are manifestly disproportional to the loss. Proper drafting helps ensure enforceability.
Enforcement of foreign judgments and arbitration awards is subject to international conventions, EU regulation and domestic rules. EU judgments are often enforceable under EU regulations, while non-EU judgments and awards may require recognition proceedings in Greek courts. Legal advice is recommended for cross-border enforcement steps.
Yes. A clear dispute-resolution clause specifying governing law, jurisdiction, and whether disputes go to arbitration or mediation helps reduce uncertainty. For cross-border contracts, choose the law and forum carefully and consider arbitration when privacy, speed and specialised expertise are priorities.
Limitation periods apply to contractual claims, and these periods vary by claim type and circumstance. Because time limits can bar rights if you delay, it is important to seek legal advice promptly when a dispute arises or when a claim may be imminent.
Fees vary depending on the lawyer's experience, the complexity of the matter and whether the work is transactional, advisory or litigation-related. Lawyers may charge hourly rates, fixed fees for specific services, or contingency/percentage arrangements in certain cases. Ask about fee structure, estimated costs and whether there are additional court or registration fees before you proceed.
When you need further information or official assistance, consider the following types of resources and bodies in Greece:
- Local lawyers and law firms specialising in civil, commercial and real-estate law. Verify membership in the local bar association.
- The Athens Bar Association - for information on lawyer registration and professional standards.
- Hellenic Consumer Protection authorities and the national consumer ombudsman - for consumer disputes and guidance.
- Notaries - for formalisation of acts that require notarial form, especially real-estate transactions.
- Land registry and cadastre offices - for title searches and registration of property rights.
- Ministry of Justice and relevant judicial offices - for information on court procedures and enforcement.
- Mediation and arbitration centres - for alternative dispute-resolution services used in commercial and civil disputes.
- Hellenic Data Protection Authority - if your contract involves processing of personal data and you need guidance on data-protection compliance.
If you need legal assistance with a contract issue in Elliniko, follow these practical steps:
- Gather documents - collect all relevant contracts, correspondence, invoices, receipts, permits and any evidence of performance or breach.
- Prepare a clear timeline - note critical dates such as when the contract was signed, performance deadlines and any communications about disputes.
- Seek an initial consultation - contact a lawyer experienced in contract and civil law to discuss your situation, options and likely costs. Ask for a written engagement letter.
- Consider urgent protective measures - if assets may be lost or evidence destroyed, ask your lawyer about provisional court measures or protective steps.
- Explore alternative dispute-resolution - mediation or arbitration can be quicker and less costly than litigation for many disputes.
- Keep records and follow legal advice closely - comply with procedural requirements and deadlines to preserve your rights.
Taking prompt, well-documented steps and consulting a local legal professional will help you protect your interests and navigate contract matters effectively in Elliniko.
